This is a film that confronts the horrors faced by service members who have served in the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars. It requires the viewer to see the harsh realities of what war does to a human being, both physically and psychologically.
The film chronicles a climb to a Himalayan mountain by a group of survivors from the two wars. Two-thirds of the film interviews members of the expedition and discusses what they went through. The other third documents their journey back to The Middle East and up the mountain. Just the fact that they are going back to near the area where they served stirs memories for them.
The movie is very well made, and is truly a documentary. It is a chronicle of the lives of these service members, and provides no viewpoint on war whatsoever. So, if you have heard it does, you have heard incorrect information. Especially given the potential to discuss the validity of the wars, or the lack thereof, there is none. That is admirable.
The stories are wrenching, and show how grisly it is to go to war and try to come back and lead a "normal" life.
The direction, photography, film score, etc. are all admirable. When you see who helped finance the expedition, and see that they are all small organizations, you know that there mustn't have been much money available. It makes you admire even more how professionally produced the film is. Congratulations to the hard work of all!
I have personally so much admired the bravery and service of all those who go to war for our great nation. That appreciation is deepened even more now.
As of this time of review, the film is available on Netflix Streaming. I very much encourage you to give the film a try. It is very much worth it!
******** (8 Out of 10 Stars)